A much-loved Cirencester resident has had his bike stolen, prompting furious reactions.

Matty Long, who was born with dwarfism, was working at the Budgens garage on Chesterton Lane, Cirencester, last night when the theft took place. The electric bike was stolen from outside the garage where it was locked up.

Almost £1,000 was raised in 2017 to pay for the bike, a charger and safety gear.

Miranda Outram was among those who helped raise money through a sponsored walk and other activities. She called the theft 'disgusting'.

"I am so cross. He's a smashing boy," she added.

Sharing the news on the Cirencester, A Local Town For Local People Facebook page she said: "Furious is an understatement!!! How could people be so cruel!!!"

Others shared her anger with one commentator saying: "Why would someone do this? Absolutely no shame."

Although there are enough funds left to pay for a replacement bike, the money was intended to be spent on replacement batteries and tyres and it is hoped the original bike can be recovered.

A spokeswoman for Gloucestershire Police said: "We were called shortly after 12am following report that an electric bicycle had been stolen from Chesterton Lane in Cirencester

"The bike is believed to have been stolen from outside of the Budgens store at around 9pm yesterday evening (Sunday, July 14).

"Anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed suspicious activity is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 8 of July 15."